Once the ring had been swept clear of debris, the Budokai Announcer picked up his microphone.

"All right, let's continue! Our second match is between Ma Junior and Soumei!" He led them to the ring.

Piccolo--that is, Ma Junior--was, as he almost always was, unreadable. Soumei--a young thin man--looked very calm.

"Ma Junior participated in both the 23rd and 25th Budokais, going as far as the final round in the 23rd! Soumei has taken part in the eliminations for several past Budokais, but this is the first time he has qualified. How will these two fare against one another? We're about to find out! BEGIN!"

Piccolo did not move. Very cautiously, Soumei approached, studying the Namek for any signs of a forthcoming attack.

Piccolo did not move. Watching for some kind of defense, Soumei aimed a kick at his head.

Woosh.

At the last possible moment, Piccolo moved his head out of the way of Soumei's foot, then snapped it back into position. Not once did his eyes open.

Undaunted, Soumei aimed a punch.

Woosh.

A bit angry now, Soumei kicked straight at Piccolo's midsection.

Suddenly Piccolo was not there anymore.

Whirling around, Soumei saw him standing at the opposite end of the ring. He realized just how out of his league he was.

"I forfeit," he yelled out.

"Soumei has given up...winner, MA JUNIOR!" yelled the Budokai Announcer.

***

Piccolo walked out of the ring, arms still folded, never once having opened his eyes.

***

Gohan grinned, and shook his head. "That's Piccolo for you. Only he could intimidate an opponent into surrendering by the way he dodges."

***

Soumei went back to the locker room. He changed into his normal street clothes. He decided he would return to the stands to watch the rest of the fights.

On his way out, he was ambushed by a reporter and cameraman.

"Mr. Soumei, could you tell us why you surrendered so easily to Ma Junior?"

A bit annoyed, he responded, "He's out of my league. I don't try and fight when the cause is hopeless. Now get out of my way, I need to get to my seat."